Megan Auton

I currently work in a 15-bed low secure forensic unit contemporary IDD service for men aged between 18 and 65 with mental health and acquired intellectual disability or autism diagnosis. My day-to-day duties are varied and include continually assessing care plans, dealing with challenging behaviour, and liaising with the MDT. I support patients with accessing the community through Section 17 leave and support with physical healthcare appointments. In addition, I help support the patients with issues such as anxiety management, problem solving, healthy living, PBS, trauma informing care and ensuring that all adhere to least restrictive practice. I support patients throughout their journey to discharge.

I feel passionate about being an RNLD, and I would like to encourage others to feel the same way. I feel the power of networking with other professionals across the country is very important. Not only can we learn from each other but we can also help make intellectual disability a stronger field of nursing.

I am looking forward to sharing my own professional and personal experience of intellectual disability, hopefully improving the overall care and quality of life for all our patients and their supported carers.